Juventus close to sign Manchester United winger Nani

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Although it’s not official yet, according to Tuttosport it’s certain: Juventus have acquired the services of Manchester United star Nani for next season. The agreement has been made with the player as well as with the club, who allowed him to regain his full fitness at a fitness center in Bologna which is known to work with Juventus players as well.

United will receive €5 million plus a bonus of €2 million if the winger plays more than 20 matches, while the player will receive a salary of €4 million per season. The deal was finalised between late February and early March, which is when the player went to Bologna for a three-week immersion at the Isokinetic center. This also allowed Nani to get a first taste of life in Italy, which gave him a positive first impression.

Juventus sporting director Beppe Marotta was able to take advantage of a situation where the Portuguese was coming off a serious injury, but also was no longer involved in Manchester United’s future plans. A few weeks ago, Marotta already mentioned that the club have already acquired a new player, but could not reveal who it was. Even though he talked about a Bundesliga player, the news points to Nani.

Nani on way to Turin

Nani started last weekend’s match against Sunderland from the first minute, for the first time in a long while. While he did some things well, it was obvious he was not in top shape, and was replaced by Januzaj in the 7th minute of the second half. United look likely to revolutionise their squad this summer, as they are now in danger even of missing out on the Europa League.

Juve have been following the player on and off for the past three years. In coach Antonio Conte’s first season, he was the number one objective to make the team improve after a 7th place finish, but at the time the club was not as attractive as now, after three straight Serie A titles. As soon as the player found out about the Bianconeri’s interest, he immediately reciprocated and the negotiations were concluded quite quickly.

A number of clubs were interested in him, including Inter, an option the player dismissed immediately, as he wants to play in and win the Champions League. The Nerazzurri are struggling to qualify for the Europa League at the moment.